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Research confirms Paracetamol is safe in pregnancy
Study definitively refutes Trump autism claims
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By Peter Clark (Senior Editor, Autism Info Center) Wednesday 21st January 2026 |
Pregnant women should feel reassured that taking paracetamol is safe and does not increase the risk of autism or ADHD in children, a major new scientific review has concluded.
Published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology & Women's Health, the research analysed 43 "gold-standard" studies involving hundreds of thousands of people.
By focusing on sibling comparisons, researchers dismissed genetic and family factors previously thought to link the painkiller to neurodivergence.
These findings refute controversial claims made last year by US President Donald Trump and Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr, who suggested a link between the drug and autism cases.
Lead author Professor Asma Khalil stated that paracetamol remains a safe option when used as guided.
Experts warn that avoiding the medication can be dangerous, as high fevers in pregnancy carry risks of miscarriage and premature birth.
While some US officials maintain that "many experts" have concerns, UK medical leaders hope this rigorous review will end the debate.
Professor Grainne McAlonnan of King's College London said expectant mothers should not face the stress of questioning essential medication.
Source: BBC News (UK)
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c74vdgkw1kzo
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